With respect and admiration, we would like to announce the upcoming retirement of President and CEO, Mark Blandford, effective July 31, 2026, following a distinguished and transformative period of leadership for Providence Living.
“Under Mark’s leadership, Providence Living has emerged as a leading, innovative provider of seniors’ care services in British Columbia. His leadership laid the foundation for our innovative care model, Home for Us, based on the dementia village concept, culminating in the opening of our flagship facility, The Views, in Comox in July 2024.” Providence Living Board Chair Fred said, emphasizing Mark’s indelible impact on the organization.
“On behalf of the entire Board, I want to thank Mark for his exemplary leadership, and his unrelenting commitment to the residents, families and communities we serve.” Fred said.
To assist with a smooth transition of leadership, Jennifer Gibson, Vice-President Quality, Practice and Major Delivery, will serve as Interim President and CEO beginning August 1 until the appointment of Mark’s successor.
The Providence Living Board of Directors will initiate a Canada-wide recruitment process for Providence Living’s next President and CEO in the coming days. PFM Executive Search has been retained to assist with this process.
Mark’s career in Canadian health care spans 40 years. He has a distinguished record of leadership, service and commitment to patients, residents and families. Providence Living and its sister organization, Providence Health Care, have been extremely fortunate to have the benefit of his vision and expertise over the last six years, and especially as Providence Living’s President and CEO since 2023.
“With Providence Living in such a strategically strong and exciting position, the time feels right for me to retire and give back to my family the time they’ve allowed me to pursue the work I love.” Mark Blandford said.
“It has truly been an honour to be part of the Providence family. As I walk around our homes, whether in Vancouver or Comox I’m always humbled and grateful as I see our mission in action creating a day well lived for both residents and staff.”
“I have the utmost confidence in the Senior Leadership Team, Jennifer Gibson as Interim President & CEO and the Board in conducting the selection process to find a new leader to guide PL forward through these exciting times.”
Providence Living continues to expand access to Home for Us in existing care facilities in Vancouver, through the construction of new facilities in Vancouver (St. Vincent’s Heather in cooperation with Providence Health Care, opening in 2028), and new care homes under development in Prince George (The Rivers, opening in 2028), Smithers and Quesnel.
